Exception Process

Lead agencies may ask DHS Disability Services Division to authorize an increase of up to an additional 50 hours each for the Plan and Find stages for a person whose background check includes one of more of the following:

  • Criminal record
  • History of eviction(s) or unlawful detainer(s)
  • Subpar credit (including bankruptcy)

    • To request DHS authorization:

    • Complete the HAC exception request form, DHS-6218 (PDF).
  • A link to the public records and simple directions can be found on the form
  • Find evidence on the public record of one or all three of the factors listed above
    • Submit exception request form, DHS-6218(PDF) and electronic copy of the public record to DHS as directed in the form instructions.

    DHS will:

  • Confirm presence of required evidence
  • Assign up to 50 additional hours (200 units) each for the Plan and Find stages.

    • Stage 1: Plan

    The PLAN STAGE includes no more than 50 hours (200 units).

    The plan stage may include:

    • Meetings between the person, the lead agency and HAC staff
    • Developing a person-centered housing plan
    • Creating a budget
    • Applying for housing/utility voucher(s)
    • Searching for housing
    • Meetings with landlords
    • Completing rental applications

    Stage 2: Find

    The FIND STAGE includes no more than 50 hours (200 units

    The find stage may include:

    • Continuing to search for housing
    • Helping the person understand and negotiate a lease
    • Signing a lease
    • Arranging deposits
    • Scheduling moving and packing services
    • Assessment by an occupational therapist for modifcations or assistive technology if needed
    • Getting household goods

    Stage 3: Move

    The MOVE STAGE includes no more than 50 hours (200 units)

    The move stage may include:

    • Pack
    • Move
    • Unpack

    Stage 4: Follow-Up

    The FOLLOW-UP STAGE includes no more than 50 hours (200 units) per year after a move is complete.

    The lead agency may choose to authorize the follow-up stage only after the person has moved to a home of his or her own that is not owned, leased or controlled by a disability services provider.


    It is intended to help the person keep his or her home and may include:

    • Going with a person to housing related meetings with his or her landlord
    • Helping him or her understand and follow notices from his or her landlord about community rules
    • Following up about housing benefits.

    NOTE:

    If the lead agency authorizes an additional move for a person less than eight months after he or she relocates, MMIS will trigger a suspended edit so DHS can review.


    DHS will approve the authorization if a person:
    • Wants to move closer to a new job
    • Chooses to move closer or further from family, or
    • No longer feels safe in his or her environment due to intimidation or harm.

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